Last updated: January 5, 2024
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Old Spanish Trail: Los Angeles Itinerary
The City of Angels is rich with Old Spanish Trail History. In an era when Santa Fe's population dwarfed that of Los Angeles, Mission San Gabriel was one of the most important population centers along the Old Spanish Trail. Antonio Armijo visited the mission in 1829, during his first trip between Abiquiú and Los Angeles. His journey connected two of the most important cities on Mexico's northern frontier.
Explore these three distinct historic sites to learn more about trail history. If you have more time, take a drive to Cajon Pass and consider a hike along the trail. If you are continuing east on your Old Spanish Trail journey, stop at Mojave National Preserve for a step back in time.
You can also learn more about these sites and their location using the interactive map for the trail.
Get more information and start planning your visit:
Stop 1: El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument
Stop 2: Mission San Gabriel Archangel
Stop 3: Juan Matias Sanchez Adobe
Stop 4: Cajon Pass
If you have more than a day, plan a trip to this trail site.
Stop 5: Mojave Road, Mojave National Preserve
If you are heading east on your Old Spanish Trail journey, plan a stop at this trail site.
Are you planning a longer Old Spanish Trail road trip? Are you interested in visiting a different area?
Check out other Old Spanish Trail Trip Ideas.